by Joseph | May 21, 2026 | Sharing
The story of Joseph in Egypt is a timeless example of how faith, wisdom, and practical action can prepare us for unforeseen challenges. Joseph’s journey from prisoner to a trusted leader in Pharaoh’s court, as recounted in Genesis, provides valuable insights into the steps of preparedness we should adopt today. Through his actions, we can see how trusting in God’s guidance, praying for wisdom, planning, saving, and leading by example prepared Joseph to face one of the greatest challenges of his time—a seven-year famine that affected the entire region. Here are the five essential steps Joseph took and how they can guide us in preparing for the difficult times ahead.
Step 1: Following God’s Leading
The foundation of Joseph’s success was his unwavering faith and his commitment to following God’s guidance. Even when he faced betrayal, imprisonment, and hardship, Joseph never lost sight of God’s presence in his life. His faith empowered him to act with integrity and seek God’s purpose in every circumstance. When Pharaoh shared his troubling dreams, Joseph responded by giving glory to God and sought His interpretation, saying, “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer” (Genesis 41:16, NAS). Joseph’s commitment to following God’s guidance allowed him to interpret the dreams accurately and understand the upcoming famine.
Application Today: Just as Joseph followed God’s leading, we too must seek God’s guidance as the first step in our preparedness. Facing challenges without a foundation in faith can lead to fear and confusion. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (NAS). By putting our trust in God, we gain clarity and strength to make wise choices and act with purpose, knowing He is with us through every trial.
Step 2: Praying for Wisdom and Discernment
Throughout his life, Joseph depended on God for insight and wisdom. After being promoted to a position of power, he prayed for discernment to execute the right steps to prepare Egypt. His insight into Pharaoh’s dreams was God-given, and his subsequent decisions reflected prayerful wisdom, showing that true discernment is rooted in a relationship with God. In James 1:5, we are reminded, “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (NAS). Joseph’s life illustrates that God gives wisdom to those who seek it, enabling us to act wisely even in challenging times.
Application Today: When planning for the future, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or uncertain. Like Joseph, we should turn to prayer for wisdom and guidance. Whether facing economic uncertainty, family challenges, or health concerns, our preparedness should be guided by prayer. Through prayer, we find peace and gain clarity on the practical steps to take, ensuring that our actions align with God’s will.
Step 3: Creating a Strategic Plan
Joseph not only received revelation about the famine but also crafted a strategic plan to navigate it. After interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams, Joseph advised him to “appoint overseers in the land and take a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven years of abundance” (Genesis 41:34, NAS). Joseph’s plan included storing surplus grain during the years of plenty to ensure food was available when famine struck. This planning phase demonstrated Joseph’s wisdom and practical foresight.
Application Today: Strategic planning is an essential step in preparing for the unknown. While we may not face a literal famine, financial instability, natural disasters, or health crises can impact us at any time. Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty” (NAS). Diligent planning in areas like budgeting, food security, and emergency resources ensures that we’re not caught off guard. By preparing intentionally, we build a foundation of stability for ourselves and those we care for.
Step 4: Saving and Storing Resources in Times of Abundance
A hallmark of Joseph’s preparedness was his commitment to saving during the years of abundance. By gathering and storing grain, Joseph ensured Egypt had reserves when scarcity struck. His discipline in saving was vital to Egypt’s survival during the seven-year famine. “He gathered all the food of these seven years which occurred in the land of Egypt and placed the food in the cities” (Genesis 41:48, NAS). Joseph’s actions teach us that saving during good times is essential to weathering the storms of difficult times.
Application Today: In today’s context, saving might include setting aside finances, building a pantry of essential supplies, or learning new skills. Proverbs 6:6-8 encourages us to be diligent like the ant, “which prepares its food in the summer and gathers its provision in the harvest” (NAS). By creating reserves when resources are plentiful, we protect ourselves and our families against potential hardships. Preparedness is an act of wisdom, reminding us that stability is built step by step, through disciplined and thoughtful saving.
Step 5: Leading by Example and Helping Others
The final step in Joseph’s preparedness was his leadership and willingness to help others. When famine spread throughout Egypt and surrounding regions, people traveled to Egypt to purchase grain. Through his actions, Joseph showed that preparedness is not merely for personal benefit but also for the good of others. Genesis 41:57 tells us, “The people of all the earth came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph, because the famine was severe in all the earth” (NAS). Joseph’s commitment to preparedness allowed him to provide not only for Egypt but also for those who came in need.
Application Today: Our preparedness journey can impact our families, communities, and even beyond. When we lead by example, others can see the value in planning and seeking God’s wisdom. Philippians 2:4 encourages us, “do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (NAS). When we build preparedness into our lives, we create a ripple effect of stability and hope, equipping ourselves to support others and offer a sense of security to those who may be struggling.
Conclusion: Preparedness as an Act of Faith and Obedience
Joseph’s preparedness was not merely a reaction to an impending crisis but a reflection of his faith, obedience, and trust in God. Each step—from seeking God’s guidance to leading by example—reveals a practical and spiritual journey of preparedness. His life is a testament to the importance of trusting in God’s timing, acting on His wisdom, and preparing for the unknown with a heart of stewardship.
For us today, these steps are more than historical insights; they are God-given principles for building resilience and hope in uncertain times. Following God’s leading, praying for wisdom, planning, saving, and helping others are pillars of a prepared life, equipping us to stand firm in faith, no matter what lies ahead. As Jesus taught in Matthew 7:24-25, “Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock” (NAS).
By grounding our preparedness in God’s wisdom, we build a firm foundation on the Rock of Christ, ready to face whatever trials may come. Just as Joseph’s actions provided life and hope during a time of famine, our preparedness can shine as a beacon of faith and stability to those around us, reflecting God’s love and provision in every season.
by Joseph | May 21, 2026 | Sharing
Have you ever felt that deep, unsettling loneliness that comes when you’re following a call to prepare, but those around you just can’t see what you see? I’m reminded of Noah, who must have felt this acutely as he built an ark on dry land, enduring years of mockery while constructing a massive vessel for a flood no one believed would come. “By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household” (Hebrews 11:7, NAS). His story speaks deeply to those of us who feel compelled to prepare for things others can’t yet see.
I often wonder how Joseph felt in those early days, when he shared his insights about the future while still wearing a shepherd’s cloak. His brothers’ sneering response, “Here comes this dreamer!” (Genesis 37:19, NAS), must have cut deep into his young heart. Yet something within him knew – he had to stay true to what he understood was coming, even when it made him look foolish.
Perhaps you’re there right now. Maybe you’re sensing approaching storms and beginning preparations that seem excessive or unnecessary to others. Whether you’re building spiritual fortifications, developing practical preparations, or following a conviction that seems bizarre to those around you, you’re not alone in this journey. The path of preparation often looks like madness to outside observers.
Let me share three essential anchors that can help us stand firm when our preparations make us look foolish:
- Root Yourself in Quiet Confidence When others question your sanity or wisdom, remember that meaningful preparation often flows from deep conviction rather than popular opinion. Think about Jeremiah, who purchased land while Jerusalem was under siege – an act that seemed absolutely crazy to everyone watching (Jeremiah 32:6-15). Yet his action flowed from a quiet confidence in what he knew to be true.
“Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind” (Romans 14:5, NAS). This isn’t about stubbornness or pride; it’s about that settled peace that comes from careful consideration and conscience. When doubts creep in (and they will), return to that initial conviction that started you on this journey.
- Find Strength in Future Focus One of the most powerful ways to stand firm is to keep your eyes fixed on what lies ahead rather than on current criticism. Paul captured this beautifully when he wrote, “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18, NAS).
Consider how Noah must have focused on the coming rain rather than the daily ridicule. Each plank he nailed, every seam he sealed, was an act of faith in what he understood was coming. When people question your preparations, let their skepticism remind you of why you started preparing in the first place.
- Build a Foundation of Wisdom and Discernment Standing firm requires more than just determination – it requires wisdom. “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach” (James 1:5, NAS). This means:
- Regularly examining your motives and methods
- Staying open to guidance and correction
- Maintaining balance in your preparation efforts
- Being willing to adjust your approach while staying true to your core conviction
In practice, this might look like developing skills others consider irrelevant, storing resources when abundance seems endless, or building spiritual disciplines in a pleasure-seeking culture. Whatever form your preparation takes, remember that you’re in good company. History is filled with people who looked foolish until time proved them wise.
I’m particularly moved by how Joseph handled his time of preparation. Through slavery and imprisonment, he didn’t just wait passively – he developed skills and wisdom that would later save nations. While others saw a prisoner, he was becoming a leader. While they saw punishment, he was in preparation.
The reality is, meaningful preparation often looks like destruction to outside observers. When you’re being positioned for future purpose, the process may appear as dismantling rather than construction. Just as a sculptor must remove excess stone to reveal the masterpiece within, thorough preparation often involves stripping away what others consider essential.
Remember, Noah wasn’t crazy; he was prepared. Jeremiah wasn’t foolish; he was forward-thinking. Joseph wasn’t delusional; he was discerning. Your commitment to preparation, regardless of how it appears to others, positions you to help both yourself and others in times of need.
Take heart in knowing that the apparent madness of your preparation may become a badge of honor rather than a source of shame. Today’s foolishness may be tomorrow’s wisdom, and current ridicule may be preparing the way for future provision. Stand firm in your conviction, maintain your focus in preparation, and let time validate your foresight.
“But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day” (Proverbs 4:18, NAS). Keep walking your path of preparation, dear friend. The dawn will break, and your preparation will prove its worth.
by Joseph | May 21, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
Most people remain oblivious of what is going on with the USA. Our moral decline has reached epidemic status, and our churches have turned into entertainment venues – promoting a humanistic “feel good” gospel.
Some people are looking to our Government for answers, and have faith that our elected leaders will have the wisdom and courage to lead us into a new prosperous era. Charismatic leaders are emerging – and we now have people pledging an unholy allegiance to man, rather than calling out to a Holy God.
Pledging allegiance
It is quite disturbing that the church has fallen asleep. While the churches have been busy chasing lavish buildings, and competing for higher attendance, our society has fallen into peril.
Now, as things change rapidly, we will soon see more unrest and chaos. Our economic downfall is but the beginning of difficulties ahead. As the greatest investor in the world Warren Buffett puts it, the credit freeze is “sucking blood” out of the economy. “In my adult lifetime, I don’t think I’ve ever seen people as fearful,” he said.
If you doubt there is chaos looming, I wonder why our US Government is now activating an Army Brigade for duty (the first time in our history an active unit has been given a dedicated assignment to NorthCom) within our borders. Very unsettling.
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They may be called upon to help with civil unrest and crowd control or to deal with potentially horrific scenarios such as massive poisoning and chaos in response to a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or high-yield explosive, or CBRNE, attack.
Do you think the Government knows something we don’t?
by Joseph | May 21, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
There is so much uncertainty in the world right now. Everywhere you go, people seem discouraged and quite concerned about events that are taking place. If you listen to the news media (which I do not encourage), you know that there is a massive blitz taking place to put fear into the hearts of men.
Years ago, I felt the “Call to Preparation”‘. It was laid on my heart that we would experience difficult times, where panic would grip people, and fear would converge on nations.
In the midst of a storm, the human tendency is to look at the waves crashing against our vessel or at the dark clouds that keep us from seeing the sunshine. Our “flesh” is weakened by the fear for our safety and comfort.
The answer is always to look to the One who calms the storms – He who sits on the throne and offers us peace, joy, security, and direction.
The events and fears we are experiencing was placed in my heart over 8 years ago. Even as I have been preparing for years- my flesh still battles the difficulties, and I sense the burdens of others who are beginning to fall into despair.
My encouragement is to look away from the media and to trust in the One who walked on the water, the One who raised Lazarus from death, and the One who is returning for His bride.
Our God is Faithful!
Be encouraged as our Faith is not in the warped message of CNN. The media can/does manipulate world events by the seed they plant into the hearts of people. Now, for purposes yet exposed – the seed of fear is being planted and watered all over the world.
The emerging “global system” is being formed right before our eyes, and will be formed as a necessity to solve the current crisis. I’ll share more in the coming weeks, but strongly believe that NOW is the time Believers should be in strong prayer and preparation. NOT living in fear, but preparing for the great harvest that is ahead.
I strongly encourage believers not to enter into debt during this time. That goes against the very message we are being told by the media and government – as it is the base of our economic system. It is also part of the flesh desire for more “things” that has led to much of this crisis.
For my family, I have felt led to develop a “3-Year Plan”. I believe we have a “window” of three years before things get really interesting.
by Joseph | May 21, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
Learning how to be more self-sustaining is an obvious desire for many people who are involved in preparation. Food and water storage along with other supplies are typically the first area people consider, as they begin to prepare for difficulties ahead.
One area that many people often neglect to consider is health care. There is often an assumption that there will be adequate and immediate care during a crisis.
While it may be correct, it would be prudent to consider natural home remedies as part of our health care and ongoing wellness. Over the coming weeks I will begin sharing some home remedy examples of areas that might be helpful in your planning and preparation.
Asthma Help
Children and adults all over the world are now suffering from attacks of asthma. Asthma is a chronic condition that includes shrinking of the breathing passages, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Mucus accumulates in the airways making breathing difficult. The attacks are so severe that sometimes a trip to the emergency room is called for.
Excess mucus and the shrinking of the airways and inflammation make breathing difficult.
It is important to control asthma and prevent attacks if possible. Avoiding triggers for asthma attacks is the best prevention. There are other ways of preventing attacks and a few can be found in your home.
First, try sitting in a cool place and practice deep breathing. Try to relax; it will release tension in your body and in your air passages. Drink one cup of hot coffee or tea without milk. Milk can cause excess mucus. Or drink a hot cup of water. The liquids should be as hot as you can stand without burning your throat. While you are boiling water, hold a towel over your head and lean over the boiling pot. Turn on the shower on hot and wait until the steam starts rolling. Stick your head inside the shower so you can breathe the steam.
You may also try a few ingredients that may be available in your kitchen. Boil one teaspoon of olive oil, one teaspoon of honey, and a half-cup of milk. Add some garlic and drink the mixture every morning. You may try drinking two tablespoons of lemon with one tablespoon of water each morning and evening.
How about this for your system? Drink fresh cabbage juice everyday, or blend honey and lemon juice in a blender with a radish. After mixing it for 20 minutes, cook it over a low heat. Take one teaspoon of this mixture every morning when you wake.
I will share more home cure methods that will include ingredients that may be found in a natural food store. Until then…
Best health
by Joseph | May 21, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
Okay, here it goes – I’m certain I’ll be labeled (again) as some crazy conspiracy theorist, or perhaps a gloom and doom preacher. Feel free to label me whatever you feel is appropriate. I’ve been called lots of things before :).
First of all, let me state that I do believe we are heading toward a collapse. In fact, it wasn’t too long ago that I would say that and be completely alone in my statement. Today, however, there are many people who now seem to agree with me.
This is not intended to be “gloom and doom” but a reminder that we must be preparing. I can not fathom how anyone can go through a day without the Faith in knowing the coming Messiah.
So why do I think there will be a collapse? Well, everything I’m seeing tells me so. You see, for a long time America has been the greatest financial powerhouse on the planet. Today, not so much. We are about to lose our lunch. Those who have held to a faith in the government structure will soon be very disappointed.
At this very moment the government wrestles with this issue of raising our debt ceiling. Basically, we have to borrow more money to keep us floating. At some point (which I believe is now), you simply can not continue borrowing above your ability to repay.
I certainly pray for our leaders and appreciate their hard work on this matter. It’s a very, very, difficult decision and one that will create major issues regardless of which way it goes. I recognize the difficulty. You see, I contend that regardless of the vote – we are heading for a collapse. Heed the call to prepare!
The US government likes to borrow money rather than make the tough choices of which programs to cut. We have become a Country of Entitlements and have continually fed the animal until it is very difficult to wean. The more we feed it, the closer we come to our own demise.
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